Letter From the Editors

Dear Reader,

Before you jump into the beautiful writing and

artwork created by our community at MCLA, we would

like to thank you for taking the time to read the 2026

edition of Spires. The students here have worked so hard

and every ounce of it shows through their sensational

talents.

This year we wanted to focus on spreading a sense

of community and love, which led to our decision in this

years cover, "catching up." Due to the current government's

administration, the unjust violence inflicted on innocent

people by ICE agents are causing families and communities

to be ripped apart. The only way that we'll be even close to

fighting against the inhumane treatment of our neighbors is

to stick together in this fight for equality. We became

inspired by a quote from Audre Lorde, who challenges us

to not only accept but celebrate the differences of others.

We should be teaching and setting an example of love and

acceptance of different cultures and traditions, not

forcefully deporting human beings off the streets. This truly

is an issue that is too important not to bring attention to and

every voice counts.

We would like to thank Professor Zack Finch as an

advisor to the journal. We’d also like to thank the talented

students for the wonderful submissions that we received

this year. Thank you to the English & Philosophy

Department for providing the resources for an opportunity

such as Spires.

Thank you.

The Spires Editorial Team